He likely had to purchase at least a yard of material. It's similar for my custom Knifemaking. I make all my knives from VERY high priced, SUPER Steel. Crucible CPM3V & CPM20CV. These are CPM steels(Crucible Particulate Metal, also called Powder Steels). They are super high alloy/high speed steels that make 4140, and 416R look like Bisquick Batter, LOL! But it's the same when I'm grabbed my steel. Couple places I can get maybe a Foot or so, but most places it's sold by the yard.(36"-38"). And for what it is, yeah...4140 is actually pretty expensive. I was looking for some awhile ago for a project. But just ended up doing 1018 Cold Roll.